🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Subaru Model: Baja Year: 2006 Generation Generation: First Generation Codes Chassis Code: BH 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Sport Utility Vehicle / Ute Crossover Competitive Analysis Competitors: Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra (closest in concept). Key Features Uniqueness: Unique Australian-inspired 'sport-ute' bed combined with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Drivetrain Advantage: Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) provides superior traction and handling in various conditions. Target Audience Audience: DIY mechanics, enthusiasts seeking to maintain or repair their Subaru Baja. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 2006 Subaru Baja Secondary Coverage: Cross-references to related Subaru models for component sharing. Page Count Estimated Pages: Comprehensive; exact page count not specified but implied to be extensive due to OE derivation. Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Online Software/Web-based 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control. Drivetrain: Manual and automatic transmissions, all-wheel drive system, drive shafts, differentials, axles. Brakes: Hydraulic system, disc brakes (front and rear), parking brake, ABS. Steering: Power steering system, steering column, steering gear. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms. Electrical: Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, power accessories. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components and operation. Body: Body panels, doors, windows, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, tailgate/sport-ute bed. Chassis: Frame, subframes, mounting points. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups. Repair: Component removal, installation, adjustment, and overhaul for all major systems. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (where applicable to OBD-II). Rebuilds: Engine and transmission rebuild procedures, component overhaul. Specifications: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications. Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Diagnostic Tools: Information on diagnostic connectors and likely use of Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) or equivalent. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format Details: Web-based, accessible via browser on PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet. Requires internet connection. Print Quality Quality: High; licensed OE materials ensure accuracy and clarity of diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital format) Access Subscription Period: 1 Year included, with discounts for renewals. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: EJ253 Engine Type: 2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated Flat-Four (Boxer) Performance Horsepower: 165 hp @ 5,600 rpm Torque: 175 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine Build Block Material: Aluminum Head Material: Aluminum Bore X Stroke: 99.5 mm x 79.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.7:1 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Optional Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Features AWD System: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Variable Torque Distribution (Viscous coupling center differential on manual, electronically controlled on automatic). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 193.3 inches (4909 mm) Width: 70.1 inches (1781 mm) Height: 66.1 inches (1679 mm) Wheelbase: 104.3 inches (2649 mm) Ground Clearance: 8.3 inches (211 mm) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat: Approximately 22.1 cubic feet (with Subaru's patented 'gate-within-a-gate' system). Cargo Volume Total: Approximately 40.0 cubic feet (with rear seats folded). Weights Curb Weight Manual: Approx. 3,360 lbs (1524 kg) Curb Weight Automatic: Approx. 3,420 lbs (1551 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr: Approx. 4,630 lbs (2100 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: 5 Stars NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: 5 Stars NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger: 4 Stars IIHS Front Offset Score: Good Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Available Traction Control System (TCS) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags for driver and passenger; available side-impact airbags. Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Typically featured a standard AM/FM/CD player. Premium options may have included a subwoofer and amplifier. Manual covers audio system diagnostics and wiring. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control. Connectivity OBD Ii Port: Standard OBD-II diagnostic port for emissions and engine management system scanning. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (under severe driving conditions) or 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (under normal driving conditions). Timing Belt Replacement: Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (critical for EJ253 engine). Spark Plug Replacement: Every 60,000-100,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., iridium). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SG or SH certified SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Engine Oil Capacity: 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter. Coolant Type: Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent long-life silicate-free coolant. Transmission Fluid Automatic: Subaru Genuine ATF HP or DEXRON-III (check manual for latest spec). Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Brake Fluid Type: SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3. Known Issues Head Gaskets: While less prevalent on the SOHC EJ253 than earlier DOHC versions, head gasket...